Successful comedy writer and director Harold Ramis passed away early this morning in Chicago, due to complications stemming from autoimmune inflammatory vasculitis, a rare disease that causes swelling of the blood vessels. He was 69 Years old.

Ramis had a successful career behind and in front of the camera. He's known well for his "straight man" comedy roles in Stripes and the Ghostbuster series. Ramis has also written and directed many successful films such as Groundhog Day and Caddyshack, respectively.

He is survived by his wife Erica, his sons Julian and Daniel, his daughter Violet, and two grandchildren.